It is said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. While there is nothing insane about needing to work and finding meaningful employment there is a lot to be said about how you go about it. If you have been employing out dated job search techniques now is the time to utilize new techniques that are proving to offer greater success. Many of our readers can remember the days when you would mail your resume to a prospective employer and most likely [if you were qualified] you would receive a phone call in a couple of weeks for an interview. While technology has expedited this process there are still some fundamental steps you must take in order to compete in today’s high tech arena.

With many of today’s companies computers have taken on the role of humans when it comes to screening resumes and determining if your qualifications match the posted job description. The question today’s job seekers ask is how can I improve the chances that my resume will make it past the screening software?

Solution #1. The first step is to develop your resume specifically targeted to the job you are applying for. The days are gone for submitting a generic resume; these resumes will not capture the attention of prospective employers. Understand that if you are an experienced Construction Project Manager and the job posting is for a Sales Representative your chances of getting an interview will not be as likely as it would be if you were an experienced sales rep. The next step is to utilize keywords throughout your resume which the scanning software will detect instantly. Keywords can be found in the job description as well as the company’s mission statement. These keywords will become obvious to you once you read the job description and visit the company’s website.

The role of Social Media [Linked In, Twitter and Face book has become the preferred medium for companies and recruiters to identify prospective candidates. A recent report stated that Linked In is the preferred resource for 75% of companies and recruiters surveyed.

Solution #2. Most professionals are utilizing Linked In and have established a Linked In profile. What was once considered a site solely for networking Linked In is perfect for not only networking but job search. Many experienced professionals are finding themselves in the job market for the first time and Linked In™ offers an ideal medium to get off to a fast start. When developing your profile be sure to utilize content from your resume which allows visitors to your profile to review your background and qualifications. You can now communicate with professionals who possess similar backgrounds for developmental or networking purposes. You should also capitalize on the opportunity to reach out to companies and hiring executives who may find your qualifications and experience of value to their organizations. Be sure to develop your profile for Twitter™ as well; job postings are typically posted on Twitter™ before any other medium. You will come to discover that the # [hash tag] is your friend. You can also post your qualifications on Twitter® for companies to view as well. If you are on Face book™ be sure to develop a professional account for networking purposes. This account should be totally professional as you will want to create dialogue with other professionals.

There is nothing like good old fashion selling. For decades, salespeople have practiced something called an “elevator pitch.” The idea was that they had to sell themselves and their product or service in the time it took to ride an elevator from the ground to the top floor. Every good salesperson had an “elevator pitch” and could perform it flawlessly at a moment’s notice. Have you developed your elevator pitch?

Solution #3. If you follow these four steps you can develop an effective and attention grabbing elevator pitch. When you are meeting new contacts or developing business relationships be sure to utilize your elevator pitch because you never know who will you meet. We believe that it is important who you know; but equally as important who knows you.

By